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Black Diamond Viper Ice Tool

Item #BLD1111 | 6 in Stock
4 Star Rating

Old Orig Style

By Ranked #10 - Ice Climbing December 3, 2008

I've been using the original Vipers for 3 years and they are strong, a tad heavy but very framing-hammer like in top balance. I believe the shaft is rotated 90 degress on the new ones for a sleeker bend. I warn people when buying vipers to ensure you get the new ones - I've heard of people getting old ones (not on BC.com though). I also mounted the leashless elements on mine (shrike and fang). It comes automatic on the new ones. I bought 2 hammers as I never cut steps, playing 99% on steep ice or preferring crampon maneuvers to old style mountaineering. All in all a solid tool. Not the lightest if that's what you want. Honestly, though well served by them, I would probably buy a lighter tool like if I had to switch. As others said, can be hard to pull out, but you do get first swings in often due to the top heaviness.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Tech Specs:

Material:
[Shaft] aluminum; [Pick] steel 
Length:
50cm 
Pick Included:
Lazer 
Leash Included:
No 
Weight:
[Hammer] 22oz (625g); [Adze] 23oz (655g) 
Recommended Use:
Ice climbing, mixed climbing, alpine climbing 
Manufacturer Warranty:
1 Year 
Country of Origin:
China 

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